Episode
#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
2:24:55
Published: Mon Mar 13 2023
Description
Chris VanSant is a former Delta Force Operator & Army Ranger with 11 combat deployments and 20 years experience. VanSant took part in over 600 combat missions, including the capture of Saddam Hussein. In this episode, we'll cover his upbringing and his time in the Army Rangers & 82nd Airborne and how a DUI as a young recruit changed the course of his career. We get an in-depth look at the grueling OTC / Delta Force training pipeline and find out what its like to go straight from training into an ongoing deployment in Afghanistan, where Chris would meet his team for the first time. We wrap up with the early days of the Invasion of Iraq - history in the making. Chris currently serves on the board of the All Secure Foundation and is on a multi-year effort to complete the seven summits to raise awareness for veteran mental health and support All Secure. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://blackbuffalo.com - USE CODE "SRS" Chris VanSant Links: All Secure Foundation | Instagram | LinkedIn Please leave us a review on Apple & Spotify Podcasts. Vigilance Elite/Shawn Ryan Links: Website | Patreon | TikTok | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Chapters
This podcast features an interview with a military veteran and discusses his childhood, military career, overcoming obstacles outside of the military, and the concept of the universe with breakfast conversation.
00:00 - 02:40 (02:40)
Summary
This podcast features an interview with a military veteran and discusses his childhood, military career, overcoming obstacles outside of the military, and the concept of the universe with breakfast conversation.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
Injecting good in the world brings good back to you as is the case with this speaker who receives a promising message from a friend as he was going to pick up a film crew.
02:40 - 09:24 (06:44)
Summary
Injecting good in the world brings good back to you as is the case with this speaker who receives a promising message from a friend as he was going to pick up a film crew.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker talks about their decision to leave the defense industry and use their knowledge and experience to help companies get innovative products to end users.
09:24 - 12:04 (02:40)
Summary
The speaker talks about their decision to leave the defense industry and use their knowledge and experience to help companies get innovative products to end users.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
Joe Biden looks back at his childhood and reflects on how his competitive nature came from a desire to be more than just good at things.
12:04 - 16:06 (04:01)
Summary
Joe Biden looks back at his childhood and reflects on how his competitive nature came from a desire to be more than just good at things. He also talks about living with two other sets of parents after his own parents split up when he was eight or nine.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker talks about growing up with a fascination for the Navy and the military, and how he wanted to become a gun totem, infantryman or Airborne Ranger, but ended up gaining life experiences in other fields.
16:06 - 24:26 (08:20)
Summary
The speaker talks about growing up with a fascination for the Navy and the military, and how he wanted to become a gun totem, infantryman or Airborne Ranger, but ended up gaining life experiences in other fields.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
In the Army, Ranger School is considered as a leadership course where infantry and combat arms officers undergo training, hardship, and obtain leadership experience before leading their troops.
24:26 - 30:48 (06:22)
Summary
In the Army, Ranger School is considered as a leadership course where infantry and combat arms officers undergo training, hardship, and obtain leadership experience before leading their troops. Black Buffalo, on the other hand, is a tobacco-free product made of edible green leaves and food safe ingredients.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
A former Army Ranger explains how the training and development he received during his time in the regiment helped him overcome obstacles and be successful in his career; he also shares his surprise upon encountering other army units that didn't have the same level of fitness and readiness as the Rangers.
30:48 - 40:06 (09:17)
Summary
A former Army Ranger explains how the training and development he received during his time in the regiment helped him overcome obstacles and be successful in his career; he also shares his surprise upon encountering other army units that didn't have the same level of fitness and readiness as the Rangers.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
This podcast episode features a discussion about the typical training cycle of preparation and training for military deployment, including various types of bilats, range time, and special training for fixed and rotary wings, as well as the leadership insecurities that can arise for those transitioning from a soft unit to a conventional side.
40:06 - 51:14 (11:08)
Summary
This podcast episode features a discussion about the typical training cycle of preparation and training for military deployment, including various types of bilats, range time, and special training for fixed and rotary wings, as well as the leadership insecurities that can arise for those transitioning from a soft unit to a conventional side.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
A former ocean lifeguard discusses how a conversation with a sergeant changed his perspective on racial stereotypes and enabled him to provide equal opportunities for everyone taking the swim test.
51:14 - 58:52 (07:37)
Summary
A former ocean lifeguard discusses how a conversation with a sergeant changed his perspective on racial stereotypes and enabled him to provide equal opportunities for everyone taking the swim test.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker discusses his experience leading a mortar section in the military and his role in chaperoning new lieutenants as they came into the company.
58:52 - 1:04:20 (05:28)
Summary
The speaker discusses his experience leading a mortar section in the military and his role in chaperoning new lieutenants as they came into the company.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker shares his experience of a selection date in a job interview and discusses if candidates are intentionally rejected to test their determination.
1:04:20 - 1:07:05 (02:45)
Summary
The speaker shares his experience of a selection date in a job interview and discusses if candidates are intentionally rejected to test their determination.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
A 23-year-old kid talks about his interview for an operator job and being encouraged to try again.
1:07:05 - 1:10:18 (03:13)
Summary
A 23-year-old kid talks about his interview for an operator job and being encouraged to try again.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
A man discusses his reasons for joining the military after the September 11th attacks and his determination to become a drill sergeant.
1:10:18 - 1:14:17 (03:59)
Summary
A man discusses his reasons for joining the military after the September 11th attacks and his determination to become a drill sergeant.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The podcast episode talks about a guy who got blown up by an IED and lost half of his face and the struggles he faced during the reconstructive surgery.
1:14:17 - 1:18:34 (04:17)
Summary
The podcast episode talks about a guy who got blown up by an IED and lost half of his face and the struggles he faced during the reconstructive surgery.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker recalls his past training experiences, discussing two events, one that was a physical challenge and one that focused on marksmanship.
1:18:34 - 1:25:17 (06:43)
Summary
The speaker recalls his past training experiences, discussing two events, one that was a physical challenge and one that focused on marksmanship.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The selection process for Special Operations Team Squadrons involves looking at an individual's overall performance, personality, and demeanor to ensure the best fit within a squadron.
1:25:17 - 1:30:48 (05:31)
Summary
The selection process for Special Operations Team Squadrons involves looking at an individual's overall performance, personality, and demeanor to ensure the best fit within a squadron. Each squadron has a different vibe and personality which is taken into account when selecting individuals for teams.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker discusses how competitiveness in a team can lead to negative attitudes towards teammates, but it's important to recognize and overcome this to work effectively together.
1:30:48 - 1:34:54 (04:05)
Summary
The speaker discusses how competitiveness in a team can lead to negative attitudes towards teammates, but it's important to recognize and overcome this to work effectively together.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker talks about his experience ranking team members in the military based on their shooting skills and how counseling sessions helped in the process.
1:34:54 - 1:37:30 (02:36)
Summary
The speaker talks about his experience ranking team members in the military based on their shooting skills and how counseling sessions helped in the process.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The diversity in backgrounds that military training brings can provide various perspectives.
1:37:30 - 1:40:56 (03:26)
Summary
The diversity in backgrounds that military training brings can provide various perspectives. However, an individual's personal drive, traits, and attributes ultimately determine their competence and ability to perform the job.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The military uses a scientific assessment to determine successful personnel.
1:40:56 - 1:46:18 (05:21)
Summary
The military uses a scientific assessment to determine successful personnel. The personnel come from different backgrounds to increase the potential for success, and the command supports activities that make operators better in their roles.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The speaker talks about how he was unaware of the differences between Army regiments and how some guys bounce between different squadrons without issue.
1:46:18 - 1:49:28 (03:10)
Summary
The speaker talks about how he was unaware of the differences between Army regiments and how some guys bounce between different squadrons without issue.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The exchange between Stamacrystal and another organization in the early 2000s improved communication and collaboration, resulting in more effective operations.
1:49:28 - 1:54:18 (04:49)
Summary
The exchange between Stamacrystal and another organization in the early 2000s improved communication and collaboration, resulting in more effective operations. The speaker reflects on the importance of clear communication, illustrated by the calm demeanor of a troop sergeant major during combat in Afghanistan.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
A former soldier shares his experience of bonding with his team while serving on combat rotations.
1:54:18 - 1:58:28 (04:10)
Summary
A former soldier shares his experience of bonding with his team while serving on combat rotations. Despite some humorous incidents, he formed close relationships with the core group of four guys he worked with for 3-4 rotations.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
A former US soldier recounts his experience of confronting a young expert in making bombs who posed a threat to the team and how he justified his decision to pull the trigger.
1:58:28 - 2:03:28 (04:59)
Summary
A former US soldier recounts his experience of confronting a young expert in making bombs who posed a threat to the team and how he justified his decision to pull the trigger.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The military was preparing to invade Iraq and soldiers were undergoing long-range desert mobility training and other preparations for the mission.
2:03:28 - 2:08:50 (05:22)
Summary
The military was preparing to invade Iraq and soldiers were undergoing long-range desert mobility training and other preparations for the mission. Despite their high level of training, some soldiers were assigned seemingly mundane tasks, like route reconnaissance, which frustrated some of the older soldiers.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The US Army's history of desert mobility dates back to WWII and was revived during the first Gulf War, when the legacy piece was developed.
2:08:50 - 2:13:08 (04:17)
Summary
The US Army's history of desert mobility dates back to WWII and was revived during the first Gulf War, when the legacy piece was developed. It involves storing supplies outside of the city and on the move, which can lead to logistical challenges like a shortage of bathrooms.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
A team was tasked with crossing the Iraqi border by helicopter and then driving across to meet a parallel team to capture an HVT (high-value target) as part of the war on terror.
2:13:08 - 2:16:23 (03:15)
Summary
A team was tasked with crossing the Iraqi border by helicopter and then driving across to meet a parallel team to capture an HVT (high-value target) as part of the war on terror.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The military bases during the Cold War were heavily fortified with bunkers, helicopters, and aircraft to act as a defense mechanism against potential enemies.
2:16:23 - 2:20:24 (04:00)
Summary
The military bases during the Cold War were heavily fortified with bunkers, helicopters, and aircraft to act as a defense mechanism against potential enemies.
Episode#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
PodcastShawn Ryan Show
The Sean Ryan Show features a conversation about the Vietnam war and experiences of soldiers amidst the history-making event.
2:20:24 - 2:21:47 (01:23)
Summary
The Sean Ryan Show features a conversation about the Vietnam war and experiences of soldiers amidst the history-making event.